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CQU Project Leader Mr Scott Simson (right) with Rail CRC students
Okwuchi Emereole & Michelle Pearce.
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Reducing the centre bowl friction has been highlighted as the most
significant factor in achieving reduced wheel squeal on railways.
However, centre bowl friction control has been observed to
deteriorate rapidly due to impact loading and wear. The goal of
this project is to improve bogie performance through investigation
of new centre bowl liner materials, dry lubrication or changes in
transition curve design and cant deficiency. The project is
conducting research on the benefits of bogie rotation management to
determine the level of benefit achieved through reductions in wheel
and rail wear, reduced centre bowl wear, reduced wheel squeal,
reduced risk of derailment, and increased industry understanding of
centre bowl dynamics.
The project was independently reviewed by consultants STEM
Partnerships in 2006 and has been estimated to have the potential
to deliver a risk-free value of $11.4 million over 15 years to the
rail industry. Taking into account the risks involved in delivering
the outcomes and technology, the expected value is in the order of
$8.9 million.
Progress to date:
- Review of centre bowl liner and constant contact side bearer
products for bogie rotation friction management completed.
- Wagon simulation models in Vampire completed.
- Models for impact loading of centre bowls.
- Bogie design factors for improved bogie rotation friction
management.
- Curve type and transition effects of three-piece bogies from bogie
rotation frictiion.
- Track and vehicle case studies undertaken.
- Development of an approach to reduce the extent of bend or warp in
bogies – involving minor changes to track curvature during
transition, and could be implemented as part of normal track
maintenance over time.
Future Outcomes:
- Models and measurements for Bogie warp deflection in transitions.
- Testing of alternative high serviceability bogie rotation friction
management products.
- Serviceability test procedures for centre bowl liners.
Project Leader: Mr Scott Simson (Central Queensland University)
Project Manager: Mr Bruce Brymer (Queensland Rail)
